Research & Development (R&D) / Product Development Scientist

FARMERS UNION INDUSTRIES LLC•Mitchell, SD

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Farmers Union Industries, LLC, also known as FUI, is a leading agricultural-based manufacturing company headquartered in Redwood Falls, MN. Our current operations include Central Bi-Products, Northland Choice, Midwest Grease, Artex Manufacturing, Redwood Farms Meat Processors, and Performance Pet Products. Performance Pet, located in Mitchell, SD, works with brands both large and small to create an assortment of canned dog and cat foods. We are currently accepting applications for the brand-new position of Research & Development / Product Development Scientist!

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in food, animal, or meat science, nutrition, chemistry, biology, or related field, preferred; associates degree with significant relevant work experience may be considered
3-7+ years of experience in pet or human food product development, formulation, commercialization, and/or process improvement
Experience with thermal processing, canned foods, meat systems, sauces, gravies, emulsions, or retort systems, preferred
Advanced written and verbal communication within a cross-functional team
Strong organizational skills with the ability to maintain accurate records
Ability to understand and operate basic computer systems and iPads; proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
Ability to manage multiple projects, change priorities, and problem-solve
Ability to perform safety sensitive position
Ability to work in a facility that processes multiple proteins including beef, pork, chicken, turkey, fish, lamb, rabbit, kangaroo, and egg
Must be 18 years of age or older for insurance purposes

Nice To Haves

Experience with thermal processing, canned foods, meat systems, sauces, gravies, emulsions, or retort systems

Responsibilities

Lead formulation and reformulation efforts for wet pet food products
Develop samples to support customer requests and commercialization efforts; revise samples, as requested
Evaluate ingredient/supplier alternatives and formulation adjustments to improve cost, quality, yield, and operational performance
Improve product appearance, texture, viscosity, palatability, and consistency
Ensure formulations and products meet AAFCO, FDA, FSMA, SQF, GMP, HACCP, and customer requirements
Reduce reliance on external formulation partners by building internal technical capability
Support shelf-life studies, product validation work, and packaging evaluations
Maintain organized records of formulations, testing, project timelines, and trial results
Partner with quality assurance to investigate product deviations, complaints, and process inconsistencies
Assist sales and operations during customer meetings, launches, and commercialization discussions
Work with operations to improve product consistency, process capability, and manufacturing efficiency
Maintain regular and predictable on-site attendance
Situations may arise that require employees to temporarily or permanently assume responsibility for tasks not specifically outlined in this job description.
Employees may be requested to work additional hours and/or accommodate a heavier than normal workload.